When you kick off your studies, whether at university or still in high school, it often feels like you have to prioritise academics. It’s good to know that plenty of employers are keen to show you how your studies connect with work.
Vacation programs offer the best of both worlds. But what sets them apart from other programs?
Unitywater is here to share more and showcase how their program can help you smash all the goals.
What is a Vacation Program?
A vacation program, also known as a vacation internship or summer internship, is a structured and short-term work experience program organisations offer university students during their academic breaks.
These programs typically last for a few weeks to a couple of months. They allow students to gain practical, hands-on experience in their chosen field of study.
Vacation programs are designed to give participants a taste of real-world work, allowing them to apply their academic knowledge to practical situations and explore potential career paths.
When Do You Apply for One?
Students interested in participating in a vacation program should typically start the application process well in advance.
Companies often open applications during specific periods. These periods usually align with university semester breaks or summer vacations. It’s advisable for students to research and identify potential organisations offering vacation programs and to keep an eye on their application deadlines.
Applying early demonstrates your enthusiasm and increases your chances of securing a spot in the competitive selection process.
Tailoring your resume and cover letter to highlight your academic achievements, relevant skills, and a genuine interest in the company and its industry is essential.
Finding Vacation Success With Unitywater
Unitywater offers paid work experience to university students every year for a 12-week placement over their summer holidays.
Students focus on a project or work relevant to their studies, work within a team and gain insight into a future career in the Water Industry!
This year, they are be hosting 16 Vacation Students across the organisation. The students are studying a range of degrees, including:
- Science
- Business
- Law
- Engineering
- Design
The students are a very impressive bunch, eager to learn and be a part of the team. Two students are this year’s UniSC Scholarship Winners – Caitlyn (Women in STEM Scholarship) and Jake (Engineering Scholarship).
Find out more about last year’s cohort here!
The Difference Between a Vacation Program and a Graduate Program
While both vacation and graduate programs offer valuable opportunities for career development, they serve different purposes in a student’s academic journey:
| VACATION PROGRAMS | GRADUATE PROGRAMS |
| ➢ Short-term internship
➢ Students complete them while pursuing their degrees. ➢ A glimpse into the professional world. ➢ Allows participants to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. |
➢ Often targeted at recent graduates who have finished studying.
➢ A more extensive and structured entry-level employment opportunity. ➢ Involves a longer-term commitment – usually 2-3 years. ➢ Aims to prepare participants for full-time roles within the organisation. |
Vacation programs focus on immediate exposure and skill enhancement. Graduate programs are more comprehensive, offering a pathway to long-term employment with the company.
Where Can a Vacation Program Lead?
There are lots of ways vacation programs can support future career development, including:
- Fantastic experience and skills development for your resume.
- Helps you tailor your applications for future programs and opportunities.
- Can lead directly into graduate roles.
- Can even lead to ongoing casual work while you finish your studies!
For example, some of the students from Unitywater’s 2022-2023 vacation program were fortunate to be offered ongoing casual work, and others moved straight into Graduate positions.
What a power move! 💪
Make a Splash With Unitywater
Unitywater is proud to champion young people in the workplace and offer multiple opportunities for you to make a splash and kickstart a career in this dynamic industry!
Hear more about their vacation program from previous attendee. Maddie here, and make sure you check out Unitywater’s full profile to stay connected with these leaders.
